Editor: Cold Gas Thrusters
Description
RCS cold gas thrusters are a type of propulsion system used in space missions for precise attitude control and maneuvering. Unlike other systems, they use compressed gases like nitrogen or helium to generate thrust. They are simple, reliable, and ideal for delicate maneuvers, but have lower thrust and efficiency compared to other propulsion systems. Overall, cold gas thrusters are widely used for maintaining stability and performing accurate maneuvers in space.
Creating the Spacecraft
Start by configuring a level with a spacecraft spawned in orbit. The spacecraft must have the following components for this example:
- Computer (
BP_NS_Computer) - Thrusters (
BP_NS_Thruster_1U_Large) - Fuel Source (
BP_NS_FuelTank_1U_Spherical)
The spacecraft shown below is used for this guide. It is provided within the example spacecraft blueprints (BP_Spacecraft_Basic_3U_Thruster8).
Note
The thruster configuration should be such that the thrusters are powerful enough to provide a reasonable torque to the spacecraft while counteracting the torque applied.
Setting the Physical Properties of the Thruster
The physical properties of the thruster can be set within the Details panel of the Thruster component of the BP_Spacecraft_Basic_3U_Thruster8. The properties can be found by expanding the Child Actor Components as seen below. Ensure that the Max Thrust, Max Impulse, Exit Area and other thruster properties are as depicted below.
Setting up Pointing Software
The pointing software for the RCS thrusters is similar to that of a reaction wheel setup. Therefore, follow the guide until the end of Adding the MRP Feedback Software ****step. This can be found in the Editor: Inertial Hold Pointing Chain.
Configuring the Thruster Array
A thruster array interface should be added to the computer and each thruster for the RCS should be added to the interface using the Add Thruster function.
Note
The Get Thrusters function above is a custom function created on the spacecraft to access all the thrusters for ease of the user.
Adding the Thruster Mapping Software
The Thruster Mapping software is utilized to configure the torque and control axis of the thruster array. It can be configured as shown below.
Adding the Thruster Firing Remainder Command Software
This software controls the firing of each thruster and its duration to produce the torque required for the RCS. Setting up the spacecraft as shown below enables it to be controlled using an RCS thruster array.
